If you do not have a lawyer, you will have to prepare your case and do the legal research to represent yourself. You will need to learn about the court system, what documents to file, the specific law in your case, what you and the "other side" must both prove, what defences you have, and all the possible arguments for your case. There are places where you can get legal information, legal advice and assistance, or legal representation.

There are many organizations that can provide you with legal information, legal advice, and referrals to a variety of services in your community. Some organizations may be able to provide you with free legal advice (pro bono) or for a reduced fee.

Some help is available from duty counsel (free lawyers provided by the Legal Services Society of BC) in family matters. Help may also be available from duty counsel if you are appearing on a civil chambers matter in the Supreme Court or the Court of Appeal in Vancouver.

The judge or master may also permit you to have a support person assist you in the courtroom.

If you want to learn about an area of law

The court has a policy which will help you access the court record.

You may want to learn about the law on a particular topic. There are resources and websites where you can find information about general areas of law, such as family law or tenancy problems. If you want to do your own legal research about your case, this link will direct you to some helpful websites.

The Canadian Judicial Council has created a series of handbooks regarding process and procedure in Canadian courts for self-represented litigants involved in civil, criminal, and family law matters. Please note that the handbooks are intended as general references and some of the information may not reflect the particular laws and procedures applicable in BC courts.

If you want to learn about court procedures and documents

The Justice Education Society’s Online Help Guide (available at SupremeCourtBC.ca) has guidebooks to help you draft court documents and prepare for hearings in the Supreme Court.

The court has a policy which will help you access the court record.

If you have a legal problem that is being heard by the Provincial Court, go to their website for available resources.

If you want to learn about trial procedure and some important rules of evidence in family trials, this memorandum may assist you

There are information booklets to help you prepare for hearings before the registrar.